Civility (or lack of) Online

Recently, civility was discussed in my graduate class, Social Media & Informatics. I was lucky enough to run some of our class discussion board discussions. I walked in being pretty passionate about the topic, as I continually work with adolescents who can’t seem to figure out the importance of being civil to each other online. Take this picture, for example:

Looks harmless enough; a couple of people taking a photo. Then it gets posted on social media. How many will compliment them? How many will bash, discriminate, harass, manipulate? No one knows for sure. Will those in the picture handle the possible consequences of their post (good or bad)?

This is not just an adolescent issue. But unfortunately, it appears that the problems of civility online have taken a toll on many of my classmates. Reports of harassment, broken friendships, families being ripped apart came up during our discussions. Even worse is that there are no finite solutions to the civility question.

How did this impact me? Like my classmates, I did not realize that some of the topics that come up on social media suck me in, agitate me, and get me worked up. No, I do not have ten different social media accounts, but the few I use seem to raise my blood pressure from time to time. So I realized it was time to stop and take a step back. I have deleted some of the things I followed and have since focused on the aspects of social media that do not get me worked up. I just got so tired of some of the constant bickering and complaining. It was mentally draining. Honestly, I do not miss it, and I feel much better focusing on other topics I enjoy: drumming, keeping up with my family, following my favorite bands. I originally signed up for this on social media, not all of the other stuff.

What has this taught me? First, many people on social media are not very nice, regardless of the topic. They will find things to argue about, to hate, just for the fun of it. Second, it is always a great idea to take a moment and reflect on one’s social media use and evaluate whether or not it is healthy or in one’s best interest.